3 Days in Praia do Bilene Mozambique : Bilene Travel Guide
For the longest time, I felt like we have been sleeping on Mozambique. . . so we set on planning our first trip. We had our minds set on the beautiful island of Praia do Bilene, which is situated 140 kilometres from Maputo in the province of Gaza.
We left Johannesburg on the Friday morning 07 Oct , and knowing the long trip that awaited us, we knew we had to leave very early in the morning. We pulled out of Johannesburg at 6h30, the plan was to leave at 05h00 and we knew the delay would cost us.
We knew we had quite a bit of a delay at the border gate (we spent about an hour and half at the border gate), but we didn’t anticipate the speed limits to be soo low in Mozambique, and the police stopping us literally every 10 minutes.
Anyway, our accommodation for the duration of the staycation was San Martinho Beach Club, and we had pressure because we needed to check in before 18h00.
For a long trip like this, our transport had to be safe, comfortable and be able to handle the trip . . . and we had decided on the new Isuzu MUX Onyx. Read our Review of the new Isuzu MUX Onyx here!
Praia do Bilene Mozambique Holiday: San Martinho Beach Club
We got to Bilene – San Martinho Beach Club just after 18h00 to our relief. The check in process was quite seamless, we had our documentation ready as well as our booking confirmation and they had our villa and keys ready as well.
We were excited and exhausted at the same time, and it was sad that we couldn’t do much on that Friday night. All we could do was make food and relax at our villa, and gear up for the next day!
When we decided on doing Mozambique, we were searching for a tropical beach holiday and we got exactly that! This beach club had everything we needed for our holiday . . . clear blue skies, warm waters, palm trees and the beach just a few metres from our villa.
In the morning . . . we finally managed to properly see what this beach club could offer us. And all I can say is WOW!
Day 2 in Praia do Bilene Mozambique
We woke up in the morning and decided to take a walk along that beautiful beach. It was amazing feeling the sand on our feet and between our toes . . . and it was refreshing to breathe that fresh Mozambican air.
After our walk, it was time to sort out breakfast. The plan for the day was to explore the market, enjoy a Mozambican dinner and then later . . . experience the nightlife in Bilene at a club or something similar.
Bilene Market
At the Bilene market, you can get everything that you need, from fresh produce to beautiful colourful arts and crafts. They had beautiful African prints hats, shoes, bags, clothes, cashew nuts, seafood and so much more.
The important thing is to make sure that you have meticals, as almost all the vendors don’t accept card payments. The good thing is they do have an atm at the market, so you will be able to withdraw cash.
Mozambican Dining Experience
When you are in Mozambique, you want to have a Mozambican dining experience, which is something that was on our bucket list. We were recommended a restaurant which lies on the main road in Bilene, so we decided to do a dinner there.
We had Mozambican rice, chips, salad, prego steak, Portuguese chicken and fish . . . and it tasted really good.
Sadly for us, they didn’t have prawns on that particular day . . . !
Nightlife Experience in Bilene Mozambique
We had an authentic Mozambican nightlife experience at Platinum.
The experience was something that we enjoyed, and there were all types of people at the club. We really loved how different people from all walks of life were welcome . . . didn’t see one hint of classism or discrimination of any kind.
There were people in stilletos, people in sandals, gay, straight and everything in between . . . it was refreshing to see. As a same sex couple, we felt safe, which is a huge one for us.
And the music . . . oh my God! It really felt like we were home . . . as they played all of SA’s biggest hits.
A great experience it was . . . and of course we danced the night away till morning.
Day 3 in Praia do Bilene Mozambique
After breakfast we were excited to do our speed boat cruise to the beach . . . and it was everything we thought it would be and more.
The Speed Boat and Beach Experience
The breeze blowing through our hair was awesome . . . not to mention the adrenaline rush from the speed boat.
The beach is on the other side of the island, which was a refreshing and exciting experience. We got there . . . played in the waves, took pictures and just goofed around. The best part for me is always just having my feet and legs inside the water, and enjoying the waves.
Nghunghwa Lodge Experience
Our next stop was Nghunghwa Lodge, and we were up for another speedboat ride. Nghunghwa was a nice chill spot, it has a restaurant, pools and had some vibe going, as there was music playing.
The only downside is that we couldn’t get inside with our cooler bags, as had been originally communicated.
We had some cocktails by the restaurant and just had some fun and relaxation time by the pool for most of the day.
Day 4 in Mozambique
Day 4 of our trip was bittersweet . . . we were a littl sad that the hoiday was over and that we were driving back to Johannesburg, but we had a few things that we wanted to do before we left Mozambique.
We wanted to experience South Beach in Maputo, and we wanted to enjoy another Mozambican meal before we started making our way back to South Africa.
We got to South Beach Maputo around 9am, and and to our dismay, they told us that they open at 11am.
So we took a few pictures and decided to source out a restaurant to enjoy a meal. And again, we were told all places only open at 11 . . . so my conclusion was yu can only eat breakfast in Maputo after 11am. Interesting!
We eventually found a spot to eat . . . by then we were starving!
Things to do in San Martinho Beach Club, Bilene Mozambique
Having experienced Bilene Mozambique, I can honestly say right now that we will definitely be going back. it’s really beautiful and super relaxing. It is exactly the spot one needs to relax, recharge and just appreciate the beauty that is called life.
Staying at the San Martinho Beach Club could never be boring. Besides the breathtaking view of the beach and the palmtrees from our villa, there are many things that you can do to ensure that you are having the maximum fun and creating beautiful memories that you want to.
This resort is right on the beach . . . terrific! So make sure you pack all the essentials . . . your swimming outfits, flip flops, hats, sunscreen and towel. And don’t forget the mosquito repellant when you plan a trip to Mozambique!
Lounging by the Pool
San Martinho Beach Club have beautiful outdoor pools . . . overlooking the beach, and it’s a beautiful experience to be swimming and relaxing in that water. Mozambique is pretty hot, there’s nothing better than enjoying your cocktail by the pool, relaxing and getting your tan on (if that’s what you desire).
Grab a lunch or dinner at Sandbar & Lounge Café
Sandbar & Lounge Café is located right on the beach at San Martinho Beach Club . . . it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the chilled-out vibes and beautiful views.
Imagine enjoying a beautiful cocktail as you feel the sand underneath your feet and their dishes are also delicious!
Do a boat trip
You will be at a prime tropical beach spot for your holiday, and one of the must do things is a boat ride. If you are like us and you are looking for a high-speed adventure, book a speed boat experience and explore the warm ocean waters of Bilene. This is a must do . . . thank me later!
Experience the Local Bilene Market
The Bilene Market is another great experience to enjoy the culture of this tropical paradise. As you check out the stalls you’ll find all sorts of food, fresh seafood, and unique souvenirs to buy for your loved ones.
Water Sports Galore
If you love watersports . . . there are no shortage of those in Bilene. You have the option of doing kayaking, canoeing, or you can go for something more action-packed activities like water skiing, or lagoon windsurfing. You truly are spoilt for choice!
